Gerrard learns from past errors

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has said that his recent trial changed him.

The England international was charged with affray after becoming involved in an argument in a Southport bar after Liverpool had beaten Newcastle United 5-1 nine months ago.

Gerrard was found not guilty at Liverpool Crown Court but accepts that it was a difficult time for him.

He told The Daily Mail: "The trial changed me. I had to learn from it, learn from being in the wrong place at the wrong time, what hour I'm out, where I go out. I'll be more careful in future.

"From now on, if we win 5-1, if I score two goals and we go top of the league, I won't try to enjoy it in a bar with my mates anymore. I'll go for a meal and be in my house by half-past-ten. We get paid very well and there have to be sacrifices.

"Throughout the trial I kept telling myself that whatever happened I would never be back in one of these rooms again. It was not a pleasant place to be, the whole experience was very frightening and intimidating.

"I have never been through anything like it. I kept thinking of my team-mates away in Thailand playing football, and me being so far from where I should be.

"You have to be able to let your hair down like anyone else but I have always tried to treat people as they treat me. I think I have had respect because I give respect back.

"There have been very few instances when I have had problems, but I will think about my spare time, even my holiday time, more carefully now. I reckon I have another six years as a professional footballer. It is not so long to make those choices."